Author: alien

Surviving the McAllen Heat: A Homeowners’ Guide

Posted on June 19, 2023 by alien - Rio Grande Valley

Man enjoying air flow from fan on bed in room. Summer heat

McAllen remains one of the nation’s least expensive places to live, with Kiplinger ranking McAllen as the nation’s third most-affordable city. So it’s unsurprising to see why many people are moving into McAllen. It will be among the fastest-growing cities by 2060.

If you plan to move to McAllen, you should know about the unforgiving McAllen heat. This article explains all you need to know about living in McAllen weather.

Understanding the McAllen climate

Let’s start with a brief understanding of the climate in McAllen. With this information, you can improvise and take things into your own hands if and when the situation demands.

Temperature

McAllen has a subtropical climate, with high temperatures throughout the year. In line with the subtropical climate, summers are particularly scorching. June to September are the hottest months, with average highs reaching above 100°F (38°C). Winters are mild, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s°F (18°C) to the low 70s°F (23°C). You should prepare for extreme changes in temperature between months.

Humidity

McAllen sees a higher humidity level than the nearby cities because of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The evaporating water contributes to the high humidity levels. Relative humidity often exceeds 70% during the summer months. This can make days feel more intense and uncomfortable.

Rainfall

McAllen experiences a moderate amount of rainfall. The wettest months are between May and October. The annual average precipitation is around 23 inches (58 cm). At times, thunderstorms and hurricanes also contribute to the rainfall in the region.

Sunshine

McAllen boasts ample sunshine throughout the year. Summer months from June through September see the most sunshine, with clear skies and minimal cloud cover. The city has about 223 sunny days, 18 days more than the US average.

Heatwaves

McAllen is at risk of heatwaves because of the subtropical climate, latitude, exposure to sunlight, and elevation. Heatwaves are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather seen primarily during summer. These can last several days or even weeks, and the temperatures go well above 100°F (38°C). It’s important to take extra precautions to stay safe and cool during these periods.

Optimizing your home to survive the McAllen heat

Now that you understand McAllen’s weather and climate conditions, it’s time to look at the survival strategy. You need to optimize your home to survive the McAllen heat. Then take personal measures for yourself. Here are the recommended tips for McAllen homeowners:

Proper landscaping

How you design your landscape has a significant impact on home temperature. The landscape should have enough trees, plants, and sunlight-obstructing structures in place.

As already mentioned, exposure to sunlight is one reason for increased temperature. By reducing the exposure, you reduce the sun rays falling on your home, thereby reducing the overall temperature.

Plant a few trees around the house. Plant tall trees and trees that have leaves in abundance. This will not only reduce temperature but enhance the look and greenery.

Along with that, you can also consider installing solar panels. PVC rolling sun shades are also another option.

For the backyard, you can incorporate shaded seating areas, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and so on. This will create functional and inviting spaces for outdoor gatherings.

Orientation and layout

Along with landscaping, appropriate orientation can also reduce sun exposure. It’s wise to survey the land and track the sun’s direction. You should know at what angles the sun’s rays are falling on your house. How and where the rays hit the house can help you orient it in a way that minimizes exposure.

The layout is just as important. Look for properties with open floor plans that promote a flow of natural light and air movement throughout the living spaces.

Choose building materials with low thermal mass

In construction, thermal mass is described as the material’s capacity to absorb, retain, and release heat. For areas with warmer climates like McAllen, you should ideally opt for building materials with low thermal mass.

Water is considered a high thermal mass material. The same applies to materials like concrete, brick, and marble. Insulation foam, on the other hand, is of low thermal mass. You may not be able to avoid concrete or brick, but it makes to install insulation foam wherever necessary to reduce heat retention on sunny days.

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), cellular glass, fiberglass, and timber are other options to consider.

Proper ventilation is necessary

Heat can build up quickly within closed spaces and create unfavorable living conditions. That’s why ventilation is necessary. The hot air that builds up must be discarded.

As per physics, warm air rises, and cool air enters the building from the bottom. That’s why you need to have high-level windows near the ceiling. The warm air can escape out of the house through these windows. You can also create internal atriums or voids that are placed at a taller height than the space.

Along with that, it’s necessary to have an appropriate number of doors and windows for every room. For cross-ventilation, the windows can be larger than usual. But make sure to have the necessary shade using awnings and louvers for bigger windows.

Install a functioning HVAC system

HVAC systems are necessary for regions like McAllen that experience unbearable heat in certain months. Air condition systems will ventilate the air much better than windows and atriums.

Only a functioning HVAC unit will provide respite, especially during the hottest days when the temperature is at its peak. Along with temperature, such units also improve air quality. In McAllen/Reynosa International Metro, there are many industrial manufacturing plants. These often pollute the air. If you live closer to such areas, investing some capital and installing an HVAC system makes sense.

Living in McAllen weather made simple

McAllen, TX, is a welcoming place. By adjusting to the heat, you can have an excellent time in this beautiful Texan city and lead a rewarding life. Thus, choosing a custom home builder is important. RGV home builders help you tick all the right boxes to optimize your home for the McAllen heat and personal preferences. Looking for one? Talk with us today.

Unraveling the Costs of Commercial Construction

Posted on May 23, 2023 by alien - Commercial Construction

Engineer inspects, installers, repairs roofs above the clouds, blue sky, technicians install roofing at the top of the house, renovate, renovate, build a country house

Building a commercial complex is a massive undertaking. The stakes are high, and there’s little room for complacency. The slightest of errors can lead to compromising of profit margins. In such a scenario, you cannot afford to get the construction cost wrong. Often, amateurs either underestimate or overestimate the budget. But professionals use their expertise to get the budget right from the word go.

In this article, we will explain how to unravel commercial construction costs and how to estimate like a pro.

Factors that Affect the Commercial Construction Costs

To get the cost projection right, you must understand the underlying factors that impact it. This is where you need to get things right. The major components of commercial construction costs are:

Location

Location plays a big role in any construction project, whether commercial or residential. And this is universal, not just constrained to the United States. A study conducted in India found the location to be one of the major cost drivers.

Where you intend to set up the building is a monumental decision you need to make. The city, the locality, and the neighborhood all factor into the cost. The location that’s more in demand and has higher foot traffic will naturally cost more. In comparison, isolated locations will cost significantly less. In McAllen, TX, areas around Fairway Grande are priced higher than Via Cantera.

Related to location, there are other factors to consider, too, like site accessibility, slope, soil condition, size, and drainage facility.

Land acquisition cost

Closely related to location is land acquisition cost. This is the amount you pay to acquire the land. You must buy out the area unless you own the land where you intend to set up the commercial building. This is the land acquisition cost.

As mentioned, plots in premium locations will cost more. But the price varies even within plots located in the same neighborhood. You need to use your negotiation skills to strike the best deal.

Buying out the plot is not the only option. Sometimes, you may partner with the land owner or take the plot on lease. Either way, you’d have to put forward a certain amount before construction.

Type of commercial construction

The type of commercial project you undertake has a direct influence on price. Some commercial constructions cost more than others. For example, malls and shopping complexes will have higher capital requirements than restaurants. Hospitals and movie theatres will cost more than either of the two.

Permits and legal work

Regulations for commercial properties are stricter and greater than their residential counterparts. And this adds up to the total cost.

There are permits required to open a pub. You must secure a liquor license and permits like TTB (Tax and Trade Bureau) and Employer Identification Number (EIN). Likewise, there are MEP permits for malls and shopping complexes. Multi-family housing permits are applicable for commercial-level residential projects.

To obtain each of these permits, you need to pay the lawyers and the agencies. All of these add up to the total cost.

Building material used

The materials you use for construction have a direct impact on cost. When it comes to commercial construction types, you have the following frame options to choose from:

Wood frame
Light gauge steel frame
Load bearing masonry
Steel frame
Concrete frame pre-engineered

All of these are priced differently.

Moreover, the concrete, wood, brick, and flooring type you pick influence the construction cost. RGV builders in McAllen, TX, spend a great deal of time choosing suitable materials as per cost.

Along with materials, you’d have to cover the finishing and fixtures cost.

Labor cost

You need to pay the workers to set up the building. And this consumes a significant part of the budget, anywhere from 20% to 50% of the total budget.

There are ways to reduce or optimize labor costs for construction. But you should allocate a fair amount of capital for skilled labor.

Financing methods used

How you finance the project also impacts the total construction cost. If you’re taking out a loan, you’d have to pay the interest over time. The cost of commercial projects undertaken through partnerships will be lower than loan financing. So pick the financing method that’s best suited for your project.

Contractor

The construction contractor you work with also impacts cost. Contractors with expertise in commercial construction may charge more and offer more value than others.

Contractors also charge for designing and overseeing the construction process from end to end.

It is not just the commercial construction costs, but the residential construction costs also follow the same suit. While working with a custom home builder with the necessary expertise, you can ensure a balance between price and quality. Learn how to find a custom home builder before making the decision.

That said, if you are looking for an RGV construction company or home builders RGV, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more.

Top Reasons to Buy a Home this Spring

Posted on May 11, 2023 by alien - Purchasing a house

Young man signing a contract for buying house in office of estate agent

Spring is associated with rich flora and fauna, calm and peaceful weather, and touristy vibes. But it’s rarely associated with buying a home. It’s pitiful given the ideal conditions that spring brings about for buying a home.

If you’ve been interested in home buying, spring is the ideal timeframe. We’ll let you know why in the subsequent sections.

Top Reasons to Buy a Home This Spring

More options to choose from

Perhaps the main reason why spring is the best homebuying season in McAllen is simply because there are too many options. The market opens up with sellers and buyers interested in a home transaction. After a dull winter season, more homeowners list their assets for sale. You’ll find both new and refurbished homes up for sale. With a little research, it shouldn’t take long for you to find your dream home.

Besides the dull winter, there’s a lot of interest in the home market because houses look good in spring. Trees regain their lush greenery, flowers blossom, and the sun shines brighter. All of these things adorn the homes from the outside. This appeals to consumers, who might be willing to shell out a few bucks more. This extra incentive also drives sellers’ willingness to put their properties up for sale.

As there are more homes in the market, you will have variety. So you can have a penthouse, a studio, a micro apartment, or single-home family homes, all within the same neighborhood.

So, start searching for homes as spring sets in.

Tax return helps fund your dream home

Paying for the home of your choice is a big headache for buyers. It’s not uncommon for people to spend a decade or longer saving for this big occasion. And houses aren’t cheap either. The median home price in the US stands at around $428,000.

Spring is considered the best time for buying a home because that’s when many Americans start receiving their tax returns. This helps cover the miscellaneous costs of buying a home like insurance, registration fees, attorney fees, etc.

For those who file their tax electronically, the IRS processes the return within 21 calendar days. This falls in the March-April timeline, which is the spring season in the US.

More financing options with seasonal discounts

Mortgage companies watch the housing market closely and cash in when there’s growing demand. So how could they miss the spring season when the market is hot?

When you buy a home during the spring months, expect many offers too. This may mean a low-interest rate or zero foreclosing charges, or more lending amount. Whatever the offer might be, you should take advantage of it to finance your home.

The US housing market forecast for 2023 looks bright. Construction has picked up, and builder sentiment has risen two points as per Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. So, expect mortgage companies to come out with irresistible and customized offers for home buyers this spring.

Best weather to make the move

Shifting homes is a lot of hassle. Anyone who has made the move in the past would agree. In the summer, the blazing sun and humid environment make this job difficult. While in winter, the freezing temperature can kill the enthusiasm for entering a new home. Only spring offers the balance required to make the move.

In spring, the temperature hovers between 12°C and 24°C. There’s no sign of rain or bad weather from March through May. This creates the ideal condition to move your belongings, even across cities and time zones. Not to mention, you can fully enjoy the scenery along the way and of the new destination!

Opportunity for a get-together at your new home

Many schools and academic institutions remain closed for a week or two in the early spring. This is around the Easter weekend and, at times, earlier.

Spring break is also when friends and families spend intimate moments together. Why not have it in your new home? You can call over your close friends and enjoy the spring break in your new home.

Early Spring is the Best Time to Get Into the Housing Market

In the United States, spring runs for three months, from March to May. Of the months, spring is considered ideal for buying a home. That’s when the real estate market starts to open up, with sellers flooding the market with properties on sale. As time passes, property prices rise, and best-of-the-lot homes get sold. So, you’re left with average homes that are overpriced.

Although you can still find your dream home in summer, it’s less likely. Therefore, begin your search a month before the summer starts and prospect rapidly in March-May. As you proceed with the buying and moving-in process, everything will fall into place.

However, if you want to have a home built as per your specifications, spring is also an ideal time to build a custom home. Choose a custom home builder that fits your vision well. Contact RGV home builders today.

How to Save Money on Your New Home Construction

Posted on November 28, 2022 by alien - Home construction

Building a new home is an expensive undertaking. It’s not uncommon for the cost to go several thousand dollars above the estimate. But thankfully, there are a few ways to keep the bills down. In this article, we will explain ways to save money on new home construction.

Saving money on new home construction

Partner with a custom home builder

It can make a world of difference when you work with a custom home builder to design your home. That’s because they can customize the design to your preference: to reduce cost.

Custom home builders do it in several ways. For example, they will go over the construction project line by line and break down the costs. This is your opportunity to understand the cost structure and potentially reduce it.

Oftentimes, contractors presume you want certain things in your house, which can be expensive. But if you desire to build a home on a budget, you’re better off without those things.

Custom home builders also make bulk purchases with discounts. They often have a network of vendors from whom they frequently buy in greater volume. Thus, they can access supplies at a lower price, which would reflect in your home budget.

Choosing a custom home builder has other advantages as well. Like they can lower maintenance charges and help you settle down in your new home.

Install green components

Another trick that will help you save money both in the short and long term is to install green components. These include solar panels, solar water heaters, wind turbines, geothermal heat pumps, and other energy-efficient machines.

In the short term, these will allow you to apply for tax credits at the federal and state levels. The tax credit ranges from 10% to 30% of the total cost. And in the long term, you’ll benefit from lower utility bills.

When you partner with a custom home builder, inquire about the cost of installation of the green components in your area. You’ll get a better picture of the total cost.

Try sourcing your own materials

It’s usually on the contractors to bring the materials for construction. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can do the shopping for yourself and source the materials. This gives you more control over the prices, saving money on your home construction.

While it may sound intimidating, sourcing materials for construction doesn’t have to be tough. With the help of the internet, you can get anything from the comfort of your home. Just perform a Google search with the component you want to buy, and you’re likely to get the best suppliers at the top.

You can also seek the custom home builder’s guidance on this front. As they work with multiple vendors, they’ll be more than happy to recommend you to reliable suppliers.

Use prefab

Prefab or prefabricated homes are a certain way to reduce the home construction cost significantly. Unlike stick-built houses, these do not require crew members, reducing labor costs. Labor costs are one of the most expensive components of building a home.

For constructing your new home, you can employ pre-fabricated walls, panels, or beams. These are both easy to procure and install.

You don’t have to prefab the entire house. You can pick and choose. For example, you can construct other rooms the conventional way and use prefab components only for the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, or anything else. This gives you the flexibility to adjust the layout in the future.

Construct your home during the off-season

Just like other industries, the construction sector has a busy and slow season. You can save anywhere from 5% to 10% by commencing the project during the off-season.

Generally, the slow season starts after Christmas and through January. By requesting quotes in this time frame, contractors are more likely to offer reduced pricing. For roofs, the difference can be as big as 10%.

You’re also likely to get better service besides the reduced price. That’s because contractors have fewer jobs to handle and thus can put more effort into yours.

Reconsider the location (or locality)

The last technique to reduce the cost of your home is by reconsidering the location of your home if possible.

As you might know, the cost of construction varies by location. So building a house in McAllen may cost less than building a house in Houston. In this case, the difference between the cities is nearly 350 km. But if the difference is 20 km and 30 km and there’s a difference in construction cost, selecting a cheaper location could translate to thousands of dollars in savings.

Along with location, there are also differences in the locality. Constructing a home in a posh locality will likely skyrocket your bill. Thus, opt for a less affluent borough to save money.

By adopting these techniques, you can reduce the total cost of home construction. If you further want to reduce the cost of new home construction, it is highly recommended to contact professionals from RGV home builders today.

How to Choose the Best House Plan for Your Family

Posted on October 31, 2022 by alien - Home construction

Designing a house plan is both exciting and nerve-racking. Exciting because you’re visualizing your dream home, and nerve-racking because the room for error is vast.

In most cases, the process will start by choosing a custom home builder to design the dream home for your family. But it’s better to know how to choose house plan for family. In this article, we will explain six steps to selecting the ideal house plan for your family.

How to Choose House Plan for Family

Consider the Number of Bedrooms

Among other things, you would want to consider the number of bedrooms in the house. They’re the place to relax and rest after a tiring day. These spaces make a house a real home.

Ideally, you need bedrooms for every family member and additional bedrooms for guests. So, figure out the total family members, including kids. Do you plan to expand your family in the future? If so, the newer members would need their bedrooms as they grow up.

Bigger families with more than five members should plan for a house with at least four bedrooms. In that way, you’ll have an extra bedroom for guests.

Besides the number of bedrooms, consider their location. Families with toddlers would want their master bedroom closer to the nursery. Families with adults will prefer a more spread-out layout.

Make Sure the Home Fits your Lifestyle

The next thing to check is compatibility. Every family leads a different lifestyle. Therefore, you must understand your lifestyle before planning the house.

Do you require ample space to relax? Do any of the members work from home, hence need a separate home office? Do you frequently organize home parties? Do you require natural light coming into the house?

All of these questions will help you in the planning process.

Once you’ve figured out your lifestyle, select a particular architectural style. Some styles are:

Contemporary
Mid-century Modern
Victorian Tudor
Colonial
Cape Cod
Farmhouse
Cottage
Mediterranean

If you feel overwhelmed by these various styles, it’s best to consult with a custom home builder.

Open or Closed Floor?

The third decision you must make is whether to invest in an open or closed-floor design.

In an open floor design, you have two or more rooms without walls. Whereas, in closed floor design, every room is isolated from one another with walls.

Open floors are better for families with kids. You can supervise your little ones from the kitchen while they play in the living or dining room. Likewise, older children can receive help with homework from the kitchen island while the dinner is being prepped.

This unobstructed view is why open floor design is so popular these days.

On the other hand, closed floor design offers more privacy and increases the number of walls available. So, make the decision wisely when planning.

Does the House Have Sufficient Storage Space?

You need adequate storage space regardless of the type of house you choose. Even if you lead a minimalist lifestyle, having sufficient shelves and cupboards will cut down the clutter. This will make your home more appealing both to you and your guests.

While you should strive to create storage space in every room, focus more on these:

Mudrooms – These are sections that accommodate backpacks, shoes, and coats. Make sure you have them at the entrance and in the living room.
Bedrooms – The bedrooms should have enough drawers and cabinets. You can place wardrobes to create more storage space.
Kitchen – The kitchen should have drawers to accommodate appliances and utensils.
Desk area – Dedicated desk space is ideal for adults and children to carry out their professional and academic work.
Garage – The garage should have adequate space to house cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and additional equipment.

What about Outdoors?

A brief look at outdoor safety in McAllen should complete the house planning. The necessities would vary from family to family. But everyone would appreciate a veranda, a lawn with few trees or plants, and parking space.

If you’ve got more space, you can plan for an outdoor pool that your kids will love. Lighting is another aspect to consider when choosing the best house plan.

Determine the Budget

Last but not least, determine the budget for your dream home. It would depend on several factors, including the house type and location. Homes in McAllen, Texas, typically cost less than in Houston, Texas.

Proper budgeting and planning will help you get the best home for your family. Working with the right custom home builders also helps.

Get Started

Hiring custom builders is popular among many home buyers. They not only help with planning the house but also with financing and designing. By partnering with RGV home builders, you can be sure of building your dream home. Contact us today to learn more.

5 Signs You’ve Hired the Wrong Excavating & Grading Contractors

Posted on September 27, 2022 by alien - Custom built homes, Home construction, Home Construction Questions

Site development services are provided by grading and excavating contractors operating in the construction industry for commercial, industrial, and residential projects. Their main task is to level off and prepare the construction site, and to dig up all matter buried in the ground. Licenses and permits to perform the work are secured by the contractors, and they are responsible for the safety of the workers and the environment.

The excavating contractor plays a vital role in preparing the building site; therefore, it is essential to hire a contractor that does not comply with the following requirements and makes the most costly mistakes.

1. Licensed and Experienced Contractors

Professional licensing for excavating and grading contractors is a requirement in most states.

In addition, the contractor must comply with the city’s requirements for insurance and bonds. Including a general liability policy and surety bonds to protect clients.

There are contractors who cut corners with state regulations, as it is a lengthy process with many requirements to be met, and they do business without the proper licensing.

This is against the law, and you can protect yourself by verifying the contractor’s licensing before entering into an agreement with such a company.

The contractor should have in-depth knowledge and experience of the required task – whether commercial or residential.

Previous clients and reviews of a company can give you the feedback you need.

Look around, visit websites and ask questions before venturing out on hiring an expensive grading and excavating contractor who might not be up to completing the job successfully.

2. Ineffective Management

Construction requires a large amount of knowledge and expertise.

A dedicated team of specialists should be involved from the start of the project to give advice and answers to the prospective client.

A project management team is integral to the success of the outcome of the job.

It requires daily control, scheduling, and budgeting and this central unit must be available to facilitate communication and collaboration across the project teams involved in the project.

When a project fails it is usually because of the project management techniques or leadership.

Their professional behavior and expertise can answer many questions from the start of the first consultation.

A good management team will also be aware of the required labor force to complete each project.

There will be a skilled labor force and emergent technologies in use to resolve challenges for achieving a successful outcome within the correct timeline.

3. Inadequate site surveying.

The grading and excavating contractor must survey the complete project site and analyze all aspects of the site.

This includes the slope of the land, the type of soil, underlying facilities or structures, and distance to human or wildlife populations.

This information will help to develop an appropriate plan for the work, determine the best equipment and machinery suited for the job, and to allocate the required number of workers to complete the job within a specified timeline.

4. Rushed designs

The thorough onset of a project is of utmost importance.

Starting from the first consultation, site surveying, providing estimations, and requirements for the grading and excavation, each step must be designed and planned with thorough detail.

Rushed designs can cause work-order changes, onsite errors, and delays in completion with additional costs that could have been prevented if planned well, using advanced technologies to remove human error during preconstruction.

Taking time on planning a project for grading and excavating can prevent time-draining mistakes and conflicts.

5. Incorrect Estimates

A critical part of preconstruction and planning is estimating. Providing incorrect numbers can directly affect the success of the project. Timelines and budgeting do not add up and the grading and excavating project is doomed from the start.

Assessing the cost and ensuring the math adds up, pays in the end. Fees of labor, material, potential risks, and every detail must be assessed before accepting the contract and commencement of the task.

In conclusion, when choosing a grading and excavating contractor, it is vital to not only look at the cost but also the company’s reputation, area of expertise, licensing and management, level of experience, and detailed approach to the task. If they do not fulfill these requirements as discussed, keep on looking until you find a suitable and qualified grading and excavating contractor.

7 Important Considerations Before Hiring a Demolition Contractor

Posted on September 4, 2022 by alien - Home Construction Questions

When embarking on the project of creating and building your dream home or office, you might find yourself with an ideal stand but there are existing structures on this chosen site. Extensive alterations and changes are required. That is when you need the help of an expert demolition contractor: but be proactive and consider the following before hiring a demolition contractor.

1. Time frame

First, find out whether to contractor’s availability and timings would suit your needs.

For this, you will have to prepare the following information and what needs to be done:

Straightforward house demolition: include detailed tasks including possible hazardous materials like asbestos, remodeling of the kitchen might include tasks like re-design, installing of new cabinets, painting, electrical sockets, and appliances. As much detail as possible should be included to estimate the level of work required and the time necessary to complete the demolition.
House/ building square footage: how big is the building you want to be demolished, is it exclusively interior demolition or complete demolition?
Material used to build this structure: what material is the building made of?
Foundation: can you keep the foundation, how thick is it, and is it suitable for the new structure or will it be demolished?
Possible other demolition required such as pool demolition.
Access: how easy is access for demolition equipment onto the property and inside the existing building to be demolished, are entrances to the neighbors close, do you need to keep any landscaping intact?

2. Verify the contractor’s License

Find out what demolition requirements are in each state as in some states the contractor needs a license and in other states, they only need to be registered. In general, a contractor must have a license to perform the following tasks:

Construction and/ or remodeling.
Electrical and plumbing.
Hazardous waste remediation.
Hazardous waste remediation (including asbestos)

The contractor’s license should always be available and visible on the websites, quote sheets, or contracts, for you to ensure it is correct and up to date.

3. Are They Insured for Liability and Covered by the Workers Compensation Board?

A licensed, bonded, and insured contractor will ensure that you are working with a dependable, reputable, trustworthy professional that will not leave you financially responsible when something goes wrong. No worker injured during a job can take legal action against you if the company is insured. To make sure all things are above board, cover yourself, and check the demolition contractor’s credentials.

4. Risks involved and safety concerns

The demolition contractor must have regular risk assessments in place before commencing the demolition. The possible risks per site must be identified, and expert involvement is required continually. The reputable demolition contractor will be aware of all potential risks and have safety regulations in place. Their safety and security training will be up to date.

The risks mentioned here, are not necessarily for the workers of the demolition contractor – as that is dealt with in company policies and covered under point 3 above. These risks could be dangerous for neighbors, people living on the property, the owner visiting the site during regular inspections, and any other possible damage to the property and its surroundings. It includes dust, flying debris, and vibration of machinery that could lead to structural damage to other structures on the property, unguarded machinery, and live services such as gas, water, and electricity.

Ask your demolition contractor beforehand whether all safety regulations are in place so that you may not suffer unexpected lawsuits or injuries.

5. Estimate the cost of the demolition – and the experience of the demolition contractor

The demolition contractor will base an estimate on a variety of factors including the size of the job, legal requirements they must provide such as permits, handling of special materials, and the ease or difficulty of the location. Demolition costs also vary in different locations and are less expensive in the South or Midwest, but other cities prefer to discourage demolitions in favor of rehab and would therefore charge more for a demolition permit. Usually, the demolition cost is calculated per square footage and the national average can be between $4 to $8 per square foot.

Special circumstances can add the additional cost to demolition where hazardous material needs to be removed, and the disposal costs to haul debris to a landfill – whereas the type of debris and the distance to the closest disposal facility will impact the cost.

Remember your initial list to be done in the time frame? Make sure that all details are included in the cost estimate you receive – the foundation, removal of debris, plumbing, and electrical requirements. The demolition contractor must provide a detailed quote breakdown, a good practice is to get at least two or three estimates from reputable demolition contractors.

Do not only compare the estimates in dollar value – but also compare the demolition contractor’s experience, references from previous customers, their payment schedule expectations, start and completion dates, and overall impressions of a professional company.

There is of course the option that you can do yourself – if the job is not too big – such as debris removal. Compare and calculate the professional removal of debris by a demolition contractor to that of your disposal of debris before accepting and signing a quotation and contract.

6. Require a written contract.

A contract from the demolition contractor must have everything in writing.
It should outline: the following:

What work will be done?
Materials and equipment that will be used.
Who will be doing the work?
A payment schedule.
A timetable for completion – to match your time frame.
Permits and legal matters covered by the demolition contractor.
The cost for their assessment, the actual demolition, the clean-up, and the disposal of demolition debris.

All legal aspects of the contract must be included before signed or accepted, and you should understand and ask about the contract, before signing and before work will be commenced.

7. Regular inspections.

You should personally keep track of the progress done by the demolition contractor. Once agreed on the time frame, starting and completion date, have regular on-site visits with the contractor to see the progress. Schedule appointments ahead of time, and keep the demolition contractor bound by those appointments – to explain questions you might have, problems that occurred, and expected completion date.

Even though this is a huge undertaking, there are always people behind you to assist and help.

What Realtors Don’t Want You to Know About Custom Homes

Posted on August 8, 2022 by alien - Custom built homes

What Realtors Don’t Want You to Know About Custom Homes

Are you looking to buy a home in the safe and bustling McAllen area? While the area’s subtropical climate, ample housing options, and affordable cost of living make it a great place to find your dream home, you may be even happier if you build a custom home in the area.

Custom homes, which allow you to create a residence built to your needs and desires, have a lot to offer, but you won’t always find them being promoted by realtors. Here are a few of the things realtors may not tell you about custom homes but that you will definitely want to consider.

You do not need a realtor to build a custom home.

Not only are you not required to hire a realtor to build a custom home in Texas, but you can usually navigate the process on your own. What is the secret? A great home builder and a willingness to invest some time into understanding the process.

How do you choose the home builder who will make the custom home process easy? Look for someone whose primary goal is your satisfaction. In addition, look for someone with these critical qualities:

Strong reputation
Years of experience
Numerous happy clients
Portfolio of homes matching your style and budget
Responsive, client-focused communication

Then ask these questions to choose a custom home builder who will give you all the benefits and none of the drawbacks of working with a custom home expert:

Does this builder work in my preferred area?
Does this builder invest in quality materials?
Does this builder help with financing?
Is this builder easy to talk to?
Is this builder insured?

Once you have the right home builder, building a home without a realtor should be a straightforward process because your home builder will act as a partner supporting your dreams and providing you the necessary resources throughout the process.

A custom home is the perfect way to get your dream home.

A realtor’s job is to help you find the perfect home. Unfortunately, the chances of finding your dream home already built are very slim. All existing homes have something that will need to be updated or improved. Some homes may simply not have all of the design details and amenities you want in your perfect space.

That is why a custom home can be such a wise investment. When you begin planning your custom home, you have a blank slate upon which to create the design of your home. From the floor plan to the finishes, from the location to the last detail, your dreams, specifications, and needs are in charge.

Here is how that unmatched level of personal attention can create the perfect home for you and your family:

You decide how many bedrooms, offices, and bonus rooms you desire.
You create a floor plan that makes the flow of your daily life easy.
You can add a pool or opt for a big backyard.
You build the outdoor living space you want for entertaining.
You can add a theater room.
You select the perfect colors and finishes for every room.
You select the light fixtures and window dressings.
You choose the style of your home.

The result? A brand-new home that has the look, the details, and the features you have always wanted but been unable to find in any existing house.

A custom home allows you to build anywhere you desire.

If you use a realtor to purchase an existing home, you may only find houses that have the features you want in areas you do not want to live. When you build a custom home, you have the freedom to build anywhere you desire.

Custom home builders like Liongate build homes throughout the Rio Grande Valley. That means that you can enjoy a beautiful dream home built to your specifications – In the area that is most convenient for you?

Want to live near good schools? Are you looking for proximity to work or entertainment? Is it important to live minutes from some of the area’s best shopping, dining, retail stores, or healthcare? Or are you looking for a more secluded location where you can enjoy your home away from the hustle and bustle of the city? All of it is possible when you build a custom home.

A custom home allows you to spend your money only on what you want.

Purchasing a home, custom or not, is a large financial investment, even in the affordable McAllen area. Because this home will be one of the biggest purchases of your life, you want to make your money stretch as far as possible.

A custom home can help. If you seek out an existing home with the help of a realtor, you may find a home that has some of what you want, and some features you do not. Why spend money to pay for those features that you may not use, or even like?

Building a custom home helps you to include all of the features you want, and none that you don’t. Want to skip the pool? Not sure about vaulted ceilings? Looking for a unique style? Spend your money on the things you want, and enjoy the satisfaction of coming home every day to a place that is exactly what you always imagined.

A realtor may not tell you about the advantages of building a custom home, but at Liongate Builders, it is our pleasure to walk you through the whole process. We never build the same home twice, and it would be our honor to help you build your truly unique dream home. Contact us today to learn more!

7 Custom Home Features we Adore

Posted on April 18, 2022 by alien - Custom built homes

The home is where the heart is, so why not adorn it with the best money can buy! Bringing your custom twist to the interior of your home is a great way to spruce it up and personalize it to your own aesthetic and taste. We have compiled a list of 7 custom home features that we adore, and you will surely love too.

Walk-In Closets

What better way to use space in your bedroom or near your bathroom than building yourself a custom walk-in closet. It provides you with oodles of additional storage for your clothes and other wearables. Still, it also allows you to organize your space better and provides an extra layer of privacy and security. Not only will this make your life easier, but this custom feature will also make your space cleaner and more organized.

Washer And Dryer in Dedicated Room

This will make laundry much easier to do and free up space it would have taken up elsewhere in your house. Adding a laundry room will also substantially add value to your home.

Maximized Storage Space in Kitchen

Modern living at its best calls for a home with as less clutter as possible. Everything has a place, and no surface is littered. In such cases, cabinets in kitchens with clean lines and attention to detail while making would be the perfect fit for your home. Open shelves or full-faced slab flat fronts of cabinets would do wonders to add to the clean yet spacious look of your kitchen.

Simple Modern Gable Roof Plan

Long seen within the annals of history, this modern gable roof plan, and design is not going out of style anytime soon. Not only does it provide additional floor space with the extra volume it takes up (for a loft or an attic space), with additional windows, it would be a great way for natural light to enter the house space.

Large Windows or Window Walls

A well-built house needs to balance nature outside as much as it needs to decorate the inside. To appreciate nature and be able to witness its beauty while still within the confines of one’s own home is one of the many luxuries that window walls could afford you. These types of windows allow large amounts of natural sunlight into the home and allow one to take in the scenes of nature outside. Not only are they incredibly aesthetically pleasing in terms of design and look, but they also provide the great utility with the amount of natural light they let in.

Kitchen Wall Tiles with a Pop of Personality

While a clean countertop with sleekly designed cabinet and storage spaces are great for a kitchen, the addition of beautiful tiles on the kitchen walls would be just the pop of color that would add personality to your kitchen. Rather than sticking to the generic cream or one-tone wall, consider covering your kitchen walls with several small colorful mosaic tiles. This pop of color will surely make your house feel more like home.

Add in a Patio

Considered one of the best investments one could make to increase the value of their home, a patio would be a great custom addition. If you’re not looking to sell, that’s A-okay! Patios are great outdoor areas to relax when guests come around or when the 4th of July rolls around, and the grills are fired up. They provide an outdoor area where all the best family memories are made, and on a hot summer day, one can easily take solace in its welcoming shade.

Custom additions to a home are often expensive endeavors, but more often than not, they are always worth the time and the expenditure. Adding custom features takes your home from merely a place you live up to the level of a place you can thrive in. They are great investments that add value to your house if you happen to sell it in the future and make living a lot more convenient.